MARIE-PIERRE

7. Oktober 2017

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„I started taking the pill at the age of 16. My gynecologist did not inform me about anything, he simply prescribed the pill, because I was having so strong bleedings.“ Marie-Pierre continued taking the pill for three years, even though she was having side effects, which were getting worse by the day. „I was depressed and moody and felt like I couldn’t deal with myself from one moment to the other.“ the now 21-year-old remembers. Those tantrums and uncontrolled emotions were the reason Marie-Pierre decided to switch contraceptives a year ago. With the effect of the pill fading she slowly noticed a change in her body and her cycle. „It’s hard to describe what a relief it is having quit the pill.“ She smiles. „I wish gynecologists were more sensitive and careful with prescribing the pill to young girls, as they especially need to be briefed more what it means to start taking the pill and what effects it has on your body.“

„I was one of the first girls in my class to get the period, back then I was 12 years old.“ Marie-Pierre remembers. „Nobody wanted to talk about it, not even the ones who’ve already gotten it.“ She is very straight-forward with her period and not afraid to speak up. „Why are girls and even grown women so reserved when it comes to their menstruation?“ Marie-Pierre wants to break these taboos, as she’s come to understand that it’s an issue for many women and it has to be a topic to talk about. „There’s no need for women to feel ashamed of their bleeding.“

Not only women have to be able to talk about the menstruation, men also need to be more open minded to the issue. „I know a lot of couples who sweep the topic menstruation under the carpet. But the understanding and support of men could help women get back some self-confidence.“ If Marie-Pierre was able to turn back time she’d wish for a strong and confident role model for her 12-year-old self. Somebody who’d be able to talk frankly about menstruation, to anybody. „I had a gym teacher once who’d prepare packs of tampons for us.“ the now 21-year-old says. „That was a good start I think. But especially at school I think much more could and should be provided to young girls concerning this issue.“